![]() Just like the pea and onion example above, much of companion planting “proof” is mostly based on theory or anecdotal evidence. How Important or Scientific is Companion Planting? So we put the peppers elsewhere and planted swiss chard at the base of the beans instead. In this space, I wanted to grow pepper plants in front of the climbing pole beans… but then remembered that peppers and beans are supposedly incompatible. Pole beans add nitrogen to the soil (which feeds both the squash and corn) and can utilize the corn as a support trellis to climb. They shade the soil and help it retain moisture. The corn grows tall and thin, leaving open space for sprawling squash plants below. It is perfect for maximizing yield in compact spaces. ![]() Take the classic Native American “Three Sisters”companion planting combination of corn, squash and beans for example. Other relationships may be as simple as one providing shade for the other. Some may have a profound relationship, relying on each others natural plant hormones to promote growth or protection. I call these “good friends” in our companion planting chart. “Companion planting is growing two (or more) crops near each other with the theory that they help each other in nutrient uptake, improved pest management and reduced pesticide use, enhanced pollination and higher vegetable yields.”Ī recommended companion planting combination usually provides some sort of benefit to one (or both) of the plants, or brings an added perk to your garden in general. ![]() The University of Massachusetts Center for Agriculture further explains: ![]() Thankfully, as you’ll see in the companion planting chart at the end of this article, there are far more plants that get along than those that don’t. In the most general terms, companion planting is the idea that some plants thoroughly enjoy growing near one another. I’ll also share our handy companion planting chart as an easy reference guide at the end. This article will discuss the general concept, how important (or not) companion planting really is, tips to get started, and some of the real benefits of companion planting – such as attracting pollinators. ![]() And then trying to remember what planting combinations are suggested, or which are frowned upon? Talk about confusing! So, let’s explore the world of companion planting. Some gardeners swear by it, while others say it is nothing but a bunch of baloney. ![]()
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